West Greenland and Baffin Island Explorer

Transcription

1 CANADIAN ARCTIC: 2018 TRIP NOTES West Greenland and Baffin Island Explorer SEP NIGHTS / 11 DAYS STARTS IN KANGERLUSSUAQ THE BEST OF GREENLAND AND CANADA'S ARCTIC JEWEL BAFFIN ISLAND GREENLAND QEQERTARSUAQ ILULISSAT This outstanding voyage explores the icy landscapes and colorful fishing villages of western Greenland before crossing the Davis Strait to witness the stunning fjords and soaring peaks of Baffin Island. BAFFIN ISLAND SUNSHINE FJORD SISIMIUT KANGERLUSSUAQ Throughout our journey we are constantly on the lookout for wildlife - including a variety of bird and marine life and, of course, the icon of the north - the elusive polar bear. Every day we venture off the ship to explore in our zodiac boats, enjoy guided hikes to places of outstanding natural beauty, and observe and photograph the wildlife, landscape and the delicate Arctic flora. In Greenland, the highlights include cruising Sondre Stromfjord, one of the world s longest fjords, and experiencing the ice-choked Jacobshavn Iceford at Illulisat a natural wonder of the Arctic. The Inuit communities of both Greenland and Canada are home to rich and unique cultures that have survived in this harsh landscape for centuries. Visits to these small towns and villages are a highlight and provide a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the people who call this remote wilderness their home. Crossing the Arctic Circle at Sunshine Fjord on Baffin Island, we explore the south east corner of the island including Cape Mercy, a prime location to find polar bears and Monumental Island, a known spot for walrus. We conclude in Iqaluit - the small capital of Canada's Nunavut Province, where our Arctic adventure comes to an end. ARCTIC CIRCLE PANGNIQTUUQ (PANGNIRTUNG) IQALUIT CAPE MERCY MONUMENTAL ISLAND LOWER SAVAGE ISLAND Expedition Highlights Spectacular glacial landscapes and colourful Greenlandic villages Marvel at Ilulissat icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and wonder of the world Wildlife observation on shore, zodiac cruising and from the ship Cultural interaction and understanding through visits to remote Inuit communities

2 ON THIS TRIP Zodiac excursions Onshore hiking options Wildlife observation Photographer in Residence Sea kayaking available Whale watching Inuit community visits Educational presentations Active Cruising & Wellness IMPORTANT VOYAGE LOGISTICS This trip commences in Ottawa - Canada's elegant capital city. We recommend you arrive in Ottawa at least one day prior to the scheduled voyage departure date. This gives you a buffer in the event of any unexpected travel delays between home and trip departure time. From Ottawa we fly north-east to Kangerlussuaq in Greenland and after a tour of the town and surroundings, we transfer to the ship for embarkation via zodiac. At the conclusion of the trip, we fly from Iqaluit back to Ottawa (Ontario). This flight arrives in the late afternoon. It may be possible to make domestic air connections the same evening. Alternatively, stay the night in Ottawa and make your onward travel plans for the following day. A transfer is provided from Ottawa airport to a central downtown location. Full joining instructions are provided in your final travel documentation. YOUR DAY-BY-DAY EXPEDITION ITINERARY DAY 1 / OTTAWA TO KANGERLUSSUAQ (GREENLAND) (WEDNESDAY, 05 SEPTEMBER 2018) We depart Ottawa this morning on our charter flight to Kangerlussuaq, situated on the west coast of Greenland. Upon arrival into Kangerlussuaq we enjoy a short tour before boarding our the ship in the afternoon. After settling in to our cabins and exploring the vessel, we meet our expedition team and fellow passengers. Excitement is in the air as we cast off and enjoy a welcome cocktail while cruising along Sondre Stromfjord in the soft Arctic twilight. DAY 2 / SISIMIUT We will explore the fjord behind the town of Sisimiut before going ashore for further exploration. Characterised by colorful local houses, the town features a towering granite peak as a backdrop. We hope to meet a few of the traditional Greenlandic kayakers and to see a demonstration of kayak rolling by one of the former Greenland kayak champions. The town's church and a small museum are other points of interest. The restored historic houses and old Greenlandic fishing boats make for great photography. DAYS 3 / ILULISSAT AND THE JACOBSHAVN ICEFJORD If one word could sum up today s experience it would be 'ice'. Even our expedition team members, with years spent exploring both the Arctic and Antarctica, will take a moment to reflect on the awesome ice formations found here. Truly one of the wonders of the world, the Jacobshavn Icefjord a UNESCO World Heritage site - projects gigantic icebergs out into Disko Bay. The glacier that creates these stunning monoliths advances at over 40 metres per day, creating an estimated 50 cubic kilometres of ice annually! Our approach to Ilulissat is always dependent on the amount of ice in and around the mouth of the fjord. A cruise by zodiac along the face of the massed icebergs is a memorable experience. There's also a great hike through the town to a viewpoint, high above the ice field. This place will take your breathe away. DAY 4 / QEQERTARSUAQ We cruise across the bay overnight, approaching the small town of Qeqertarsuaq, situated at the head of Disko Bay. Keep a look out for humpback or fin whales which we often encounter here. A small harbour filled with local fishing boats greets us as we head ashore. Our landing site is right next to the old Customs building - now a small museum. Qeqertarsuaq is a very historic location where Eric the Red, the 9th century Norse Viking, is believed to have visited and used the location as a base for hunting, fishing and exploration. The town is easily explored on foot and a hike up to a high point provides great views of the town, the harbour and offshore where large icebergs drift by. Be sure to stop and chat to the locals. We return to the ship and weigh anchor - heading west for Baffin Island and Canada. DAY 5 / CROSSING THE DAVIS STRAIT We wake this morning to find ourselves in the Davis Strait - a broad expanse of open water that separates Greenland from Canada. Whale sightings are possible and we sometimes encounter fin, sperm, sei and humpback whales, plus seals and seabirds. Our onboard experts deliver fascinating presentations that focus on wildlife, history, geology and the culture of the Arctic as we navigate closer towards the coast of Baffin Island. At this time of the season and with the right atmospheric conditions, we hope to catch a glimpse of the dancing lights in the night sky - the mystical Aurora Borealis. DAY 6 / SUNSHINE FJORD Our first landfall on Baffin Island will be at Sunshine Fjord where you will have the opportunity to cross the Arctic Circle however you wish on foot, in a zodiac or on board ship. This location offers terrific hiking opportunities and we have a number of great routes in mind. You may wish to take the extended hike, gaining some real elevation and offering wonderful views of our surroundings. Or choose to take the less strenuous option along the shoreline. The sheltered waters of the fjord provide the kayakers with great conditions for paddling.

3 DAY 7 / CAPE MERCY DAY 10 / LOWER SAVAGE ISLANDS Protecting the northern entrance to Cumberland Sound, Cape Mercy is an exposed headland jutting out into the Davis Strait. As the Baffin middle ice recedes throughout the summer, this stretch of coastline is a great place to look for polar bears. All eyes will be off the ship looking for these majestic animals in their natural environment. At the mouth of Frobisher Bay on the south-eastern tip of Baffin Island, the Lower Savage Islands are a geological wonder. A maze of channels crisscross the island and provide great zodiac cruising opportunities. It's possible to navigate from one side of the island to the other where the ship will collect us. The islands are ideally situated between the dynamic flow of the Hudson Strait and this mixing of nutrient rich waters makes for a diversity of marine line. Tonight, as we near the end of our journey we enjoy an entertaining voyage recap from the Expedition Leader. We celebrate with a special dinner attended by the Captain of the ship and reflect on our journey through the landscapes of the Arctic. DAY 8 / PANGNIRTUNG Nestled in the heart of Cumberland Sound and the gateway to Auyuittuq National Park, Pangnirtung is beautifully situated between the mountains and the sea. This remote town is known for its arts and crafts and a visit to the local art gallery is a highlight. In addition, the Angmarlik Visitor Centre has a wonderful interpretive display featuring the lifestyle of the Thule and of the modern Inuit. DAY 9 / MONUMENTAL ISLAND Situated in the Davis Strait, the rocky dome of Monumental Island can be seen from a distance. We explore by zodiac along the rocky shoreline and hope to encounter polar bears in this vicinity. Walrus are also known to haul out along the shore here. In good weather a complete circumnavigation of the island in the zodiacs is possible. DAY 11 / IQALUIT DISEMBARKATION RETURN FLIGHT TO OTTAWA By morning we are anchored off the beach from Iqaluit the largest community on Baffin Island. We say goodbye to our crew and make our way ashore on our final zodiac ride. We are transferred to the airport and board out scheduled flight to Ottawa. On arrival in Ottawa our journey comes to an end. A transfer is provided to a downtown location. ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS FOR GREENLAND AND BAFFIN ISLAND: A classic 12-night Northwest Passage expedition starting in Greenland, navigating west and ending in Cambridge Bay will also explore many of the sites in Greenland visited on this itinerary. It includes the northern end of Baffin Island, Cumberland Sound then navigates through the western section of the North West Passage. See the website for details. ABOUT OUR ITINERARY: Polar exploration can be unpredictable. Specific sites visited will depend on prevailing weather and ice conditions at the time of sailing. The above itinerary should be read as a guide only and may change. The ship s Captain in conjunction with the Expedition Leader continually review the sailing plan throughout the voyage, making adjustments to the itinerary along the way to take advantage of optimal weather and ice conditions or to maximize our encounters with wildlife. Decades of experience spent exploring these waterways mean we have a large number of outstanding landing sites and zodiac cruising locations to consider, even when the weather conditions may not be ideal or when heavy ice may hinder our a planned route. A flexible approach is something we encourage you to bring to the ship.

4 YOUR EXPEDITION INCLUDES: Comprehensive pre-voyage information package including details to help you prepare for your trip in Greenland and the Canadian Arctic Transfers to Ottawa airport and to the ship on embarkation day. Transfers at the end of the voyage in Iqaluit and on arrival back in Ottawa at the end of the voyage to a central downtown location Shipboard accommodation in your selected cabin category with daily housekeeping. Cabins feature outside views with windows or portholes that open on each deck High quality, eco friendly, Canadian made natural amenities in every cabin All breakfasts, lunches and dinners on board throughout your voyage with daily afternoon tea 24 hour tea, coffee, hot chocolate in bar lounge plus in cabin tea, coffee, hot chocolate replenished daily Experienced Expedition Leader and professional expedition team of marine bioligists, naturalists, historians, adventure guides and photographers Daily off-ship excursions by Zodiac boat breaking into small groups for shore landings Guided hikes and walks on shore of various durations for guests of all abilities Visits to wildlife colonies, historic sites, places of outstanding natural beauty and community visits Educational presentations and talks by polar experts in their field (ie. marine biologists, naturalists, historians etc). Onboard or on shore Resident photographer available to assist all guests Access to computers in the multimedia lab for image downloads, file back up and management An emergency trained Physician onboard every voyage Dedicated hospitality team including Hotel Manager, four chefs, professional bar staff and Adventure Concierge staff Onboard sauna, plunge pool, Jacuzzi and fitness centre including personal trainer and massage options (charge applies for massage and spa treatments) Sea Kayaking programme available (additional charge of $695pp) must be reserved at the time of booking your voyage and you must have some prior paddling experience Access to well stocked library full of polar reference books and holiday reading End of voyage video, photos and take home USB The right gear for your trip included When you travel with One Ocean Expeditions, you will have the use of an expedition gear package free of charge. Containing around $US900 worth of essential equipment, this kit includes a quality waterproof/ windproof jacket and bib-pants plus insulated rubber boots designed for extended walking. We also include a set of binoculars and a trekking pole for use when on shore. A waterproof backpack completes your package. This kit saves you buying expensive clothing and equipment you may only ever use once. It also eliminates the need to carry such cumbersome gear to the ship (total weight around 8kg/17lbs). The Expedition does not include: Any international or local airfare unless otherwise specified in the voyage itinerary Visa and passport expenses Pre or post-cruise hotel accommodation unless otherwise specified in the itinerary (or pre-arranged) Pre or post-cruise transfers unless otherwise specified unless in the itinerary (or pre-arranged) Personal expenses on board such as alcoholic beverages, bar charges or laundry expenses Telecommunication charges (ie. , satellite phone) Baggage, cancellation or medical travel insurance related expenses (travel insurance is mandatory on all voyages) A voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for expedition staff and ship crew (suggested amount $US12-15 per day) Port fees and all permits to access visited areas

5 THE RIGHT SHIP = THE BEST EXPERIENCE Akademik Sergey Vavilov (One Ocean Voyager) The Akademik Sergey Vavilov is the perfect ship for exploring Greenland and Canada's Arctic region. Although she is a very spacious expedition vessel, the ship accommodates just 92 passengers. This makes all the difference when we disembark for our shore landings and zodiac excursions. Our fleet of zodiacs enable everyone to get off the ship at the same time. We do not need to operate shuttles to and from the ship or run hurried shore landings. This is the reality of a cruise on larger capacity vessels. Our smaller group sizes mean we are less obtrusive and better able to manage visits to remote Inuit communities - a fact not lost on our local hosts in such locations. The high ice classification of the ship also allows us to safely navigate in areas of broken sea ice and along the edges of the polar ice pack. This transition zone is a place we frequently encounter seals, seabirds and polar bears and sightings from the ship are not uncommon. To learn more about this exceptional vessel, request a copy of the Ship Fact Sheet containing ship specifications and additional information. BEFORE YOU BOOK IMPORTANT VOYAGE DETAILS FLIGHTS TO JOIN YOUR ARCTIC CRUISE Flights are required to get to (and from) the ship embarkation locations in the Arctic. These flights are in addition to the voyage price. This flight package must be booked in conjunction with your cruise. Flights are either on scheduled airlines (ie. Ottawa to Iqaluit) or are specially arranged charter flights operating into very remote Arctic locations such as Resolute, Cambridge Bay or Kangerlussuaq. If you have questions about these flights, please discuss these with your booking agent at the time of confirming your voyage. COMPREHENSIVE PRE-VOYAGE INFORMATION Upon receipt of your deposit and booking forms, a detailed booklet will be sent to you providing additional information to help you prepare for your voyage. This resource is full of useful facts and covers practicalities such as suggested clothing, life on board the ship, wildlife, geography and history as well as details about the activities available throughout your voyage. Information regarding passports and visas, budgeting, as well as travel insurance requirements are also found in this helpful document. TRAVEL INSURANCE On all One Ocean Expeditions voyages, you must have comprehensive travel insurance. Your booking agent can recommend a policy designed to cover participants on these voyages. Your policy must provide coverage for your medical costs in case of hospitalization, emergency travel and repatriation. Please check the terms of your policy carefully, particularly with regard to limits of cover. Also ensure you are familiar with the procedure for making claims. Once you have paid your deposit or full payment, certain fees will apply if you have to cancel your holiday (see the cancellation provisions in our booking terms and conditions). For this reason you should take out travel insurance at the time of paying your deposit, which should then protect you in such a situation. You will be required to send us travel insurance policy details prior to your voyage. PASSPORTS AND VISAS Most nationalities will be required to an Electronic Travel Authorization (known as an eta) to enter Canada (except US citizens). This is easily obtained online prior to travel and a fee of $CAD7.00 is payable at the time you lodge your application. The eta is valid for a period of five years from date of issue. Speak to your booking agent for more information or contact your local Canadian consular authorities for further details. SEA KAYAKING The sea kayaking program is directed at any passenger with an adventurous spirit and some prior paddling experience. This option MUST be reserved at the time of booking and attracts an additional charge of $US695 per participant. You can not book sea kayaking on board the ship. You will need to complete a special questionnaire outlining your previous kayaking experience. Ask your agent, or our office for a copy of this document if you are interested in joining the sea kayaking program. THE ONE CLUB EXPEDITION ALUMNI Come as a passenger, leave as a friend. Once you have experienced one voyage with us, it s likely you will want to experience another. Your commitment to travel with us, is rewarded with our commitment to you, our valued guest. As members of the One Club Expedition Alumni, your loyalty is rewarded with a range of great travel benefits when you return for your next voyage no matter the destination. Ask your booking agent for details. IMPORTANT: The information provided here is given in good faith and has been compiled with all reasonable care. However, some of the information may become out of date. Please keep this in mind and check with us if you want to be sure about anything. The document was correct at time of printing. If you have any queries, please contact your voyage booking agent or our office. We are here to help you.

6 OUR CANADIAN STORY. PART OF YOUR EXPERIENCE. A true partner in Canada's North Social and environmental responsibility is something we take seriously. We are committed to supporting the economic sustainability and unique cultures of northern communities. We employ Inuit guides and traditional artisans on our voyages to share with you their fantastic knowledge, history, rich cultural traditions and talents. For many guests, this deep insight into northern life is the highlight of their voyage. World Leading - the World Over For several years One Ocean Expeditions and the Royal Canadian Geographical Society have maintained a collaborative relationship grounded in geographical education, exploration, science, social and economic community development, Canadian national identity and experiential travel. We are proud to be the exclusive marine travel partner of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society and affiliates. The right team Fewer than 100 guests on the ship doesn't mean fewer staff. Quite the opposite. You will come to appreciate the dedication of our expedition team when onboard the ship. The highest staff to guest ratio in the industry (1:4) allows you to experience the broadest range of activities possible, catering to all interests and abilities. We are known for our flexible, yet professional approach and an ability to 'make it happen'. INTERESTED IN THIS EXPERIENCE? When choosing to travel with One Ocean Expeditions we ensure your experience from start to finish, is straight forward and well organized. Start by customizing your journey and mapping out the trip ahead. If this sounds like the right trip for you, please discuss your ideas and plans with your preferred booking agent. They will reserve a cabin for you on your chosen voyage. This provides time to book flights to the embarkation points of this voyage and to plan other pre or post voyage travel requirements. Please remember that you will require comprehensive travel insurance to join our voyages. This is best arranged at the time of booking. Following confirmation of your Reservation, you will need to complete a detailed One Ocean Expeditions Booking Package plus other pre voyage documentation to accompany your deposit. At this point your voyage of discovery is underway. Take advantage of our experience, which spans decades of expedition travel in the Polar Regions. Should you have any questions, we are here to help at any time. YOUR NOTES: Trip Note Updated: 19MAY17 - RC there is only one ocean